No Kings protest underway against Trump military parade - all updates as millions gather in parks and plazas across U.S

“No Kings” protesters have gathered in small towns and cities around the United States on Saturday to show opposition to US president Donald Trump, while he has scheduled a large military parade honouring the 250th anniversary of the Army that coincides with his birthday, as per a report.

No Kings Protesters Rally Across the US

According to AP, in Atlanta, the 5,000-capacity “No Kings” rally had reached its limit very fast, and over thousands more demonstrators were outside the barrier in front of the state capitol, with a handful of counterprotesters left before the rally finished.

Thousands Gather in Atlanta and Philadelphia

In Philadelphia, many hundreds of protesters gathered in the famous Love Park downtown, where organisers gave out small American flags for people to carry along with protest signs saying things like “fight oligarchy” and “deport the mini-Mussolinis” as they waited for the march to start, as per the report.


Even a woman wearing a foam Statue of Liberty crown was seen, who got a speaker system and led an anti-Trump sing-along, changing the words “young man” in the song “Y.M.C.A.” to “con man,” reported AP.

Nationwide Demonstrations with a Shared Message

In Charlotte, North Carolina, “No Kings” protesters were seen cheering for anti-Trump speakers and chanted “we have no kings” while people started to gather in front of Los Angeles City Hall, many carrying American flags as a drum circle began, reported AP.

Meanwhile, in Florida, over thousands of people gathered on the grounds of the old Capitol, where protesters were seen chanting, “This is what community looks like,” and carried signs with messages like “one nation under distress” and “dissent is patriotic,” as per the report.

“No Kings” organisers have planned protests in almost 2,000 locations across the United States, from city blocks and small towns to courthouse steps and community parks, however, no events have been scheduled in Washington, D.C., where Trump's military parade will take place in the evening, reported AP.

The 50501 Movement, the group which has organised the protests, said that it picked the name “No Kings” to support democracy and speak out against what they call the authoritarian actions of the Trump administration, reported AP.

FAQs

Why are people protesting on Trump’s birthday?
Many see Trump’s birthday military parade as symbolic of authoritarianism. Protesters are using the day to defend democracy and oppose what they say is a pattern of anti-democratic behavior.

Who organized the protests?
The 50501 Movement organized the national effort. Their name represents 50 states, 50 protests, one unified message.